The Charlotte Region’s business community is united in its support for new legislation filed today which continues the momentum for critical transportation initiatives in Mecklenburg County. Leaders in the North Carolina Senate introduced a bill to create a new regional transit authority to provide oversight and regulation for transportation investments.
The bill follows the Senate’s introduction of a complementary piece of legislation filed last month which would approve a sales tax referendum in Mecklenburg County to generate funding for road and transit projects. The legislation will allow the people of Mecklenburg with an opportunity to vote yes for much greater investments in roads, transit and bus systems to ensure we maintain the outstanding quality of life we know is threatened by increasing congestion.
“We continue to be grateful to the Senate and sponsors, Senators Bill Rabon, David Craven, and Vickie Sawyer for their work on the Mecklenburg County transportation initiative,” Gene Woods, chair of the Charlotte Executive Leadership Council said. “This filing follows the hard work of the managers, and we are grateful to the primary sponsors for the entire proposal. We look forward to continuing to work with House and Senate lawmakers throughout the legislative process.”
As one of the fastest-growing regions in the United States, transportation investments are vital for our sustained economic vitality, ensuring we keep pace with our rapid population growth and remain attractive for business to grow and relocate here.
“The region’s population is projected to grow by nearly 50% in the next 25 years,” David Longo, CLT Alliance board chair, said. “We stand at the threshold of a once-in-a-generation chance to shape our future. We appreciate the lawmakers who understand the importance of this effort and are working hard to secure a brighter tomorrow for our community.”
The CLT Alliance will continue its efforts to support all those at the state and local level who are working towards a solution for our transportation needs. The Charlotte Region’s business community will continue to work with state lawmakers to advance this important initiative.
